The 2026 Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship will showcase the DP World Tour’s brightest emerging talent when it tees off next month at Royal Golf Club. Newly-crowned Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year Martin Couvra (above) headlines a field of breakthrough stars at one of the Middle East’s premier professional golf tournaments.
DP World Tour Rookie Stars Lead Championship Field
Martin Couvra made history in 2025 as only the second Frenchman to claim the prestigious Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year award. The French golfer’s standout season included victory at the Turkish Airlines Open and six additional top-ten finishes, securing 19th place on the Race to Dubai Rankings.
Joining him is 21-year-old Spanish sensation Ángel Ayora, who pushed Couvra throughout the rookie race. Australian Elvis Smylie completes the rising star trio after capturing his maiden DP World Tour title earlier in the season. These three young professionals represent the future of international golf, with leading players from more than 25 countries confirmed to compete in Bahrain.
Bapco Energies Partnership Elevates Tournament Experience
Bapco Energies became Title Partner in 2025, having previously served as presenting partner. The enhanced partnership focuses on delivering an exceptional tournament experience while positioning Bahrain as a leading golf destination in the Middle East.
The championship is pioneering sustainable golf tournament practices through innovative environmental initiatives, including powering hospitality facilities and tournament structures using solar energy and battery technology.
Mark Thomas, Group Chief Executive Officer of Bapco Energies, said: “We are pleased to renew our partnership with the DP World Tour for the 2026 Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship. This collaboration reflects our confidence in the tournament’s continued success and its ability to elevate Bahrain on the global sporting stage.”
His Excellency Faris Mustafa Al Kooheji, Secretary General of Bahrain Olympic Committee, added: “The Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship is putting the Kingdom of Bahrain on the map as a world-class golfing destination, providing international exposure and supporting our drive to grow the game in the region.”
Tom Phillips, Director of Middle East at the DP World Tour, said: “The championship is going from strength to strength, with strong year-on-year growth in spectator numbers and a commitment to environmentally sustainable best practice.”
Free Tickets and Family Entertainment
Golf fans can secure FREE general admission tickets to experience world-class professional golf at the 2026 Bahrain Championship, with premium hospitality packages also available.
Beyond championship golf, the event offers extensive family entertainment at Royal Golf Club, including a 100-metre zip line experience, children’s activities, traditional Bahraini souq, and diverse food and beverage options.
Registration for free tickets is open now. Follow @bahraingolfchamps on Instagram for tournament updates and player announcements.
